The Special COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant (SRD Grant) is a vital support system for millions of South Africans who are struggling to make ends meet.
The grant, which is administered by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), provides a monthly payment of R350 to eligible beneficiaries.
To qualify for the SRD Grant, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, which are outlined in this article.
SRD Grant Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the SRD Grant, applicants must be South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees who are residing in South Africa.
They must also be between the ages of 18 and 60 years old.
In addition, applicants must not be receiving any other form of social grant, such as the Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, or Child Support Grant.
Unemployed Individuals
Unemployed individuals who are not receiving any form of income or financial assistance from their employers or the government are eligible to apply for the SRD Grant.
This includes individuals who are not registered with the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) or the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
Individuals with Low Income
Individuals who are earning a low income, as defined by the Department of Social Development, are also eligible to apply for the SRD Grant.
This includes individuals who are earning less than R595 per month.
Required Documents for SRD Grant Application
To apply for the SRD Grant, applicants must provide certain documents to support their application. These documents include:
Identity Document
Applicants must provide a valid South African identity document, such as an ID book or card, or a valid refugee permit.
Proof of Income
Applicants must provide proof of their income, such as a payslip or a letter from their employer.
If they are unemployed, they must provide a sworn statement confirming their unemployment status.
Proof of Residence
Applicants must provide proof of their residence, such as a utility bill or a letter from their landlord.
How to Apply for the SRD Grant
Applicants can apply for the SRD Grant through various channels, including:
Online Application
Applicants can apply online through the SASSA website.
They will need to provide their personal details, including their ID number, name, and surname, as well as their contact details.
WhatsApp Application
Applicants can also apply via WhatsApp by sending a message to the SASSA WhatsApp number.
They will need to provide their personal details and follow the prompts to complete their application.
USSD Application
Applicants can also apply via USSD by dialing the SASSA USSD code.
They will need to provide their personal details and follow the prompts to complete their application.
SRD Grant Application Assessment
Once an application has been submitted, it will be assessed by SASSA to determine whether the applicant meets the eligibility criteria.
The assessment process may take several days to complete, and applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application via SMS.
Appeal Process
If an application is declined, the applicant has the right to appeal the decision.
They can do this by contacting the SASSA call centre or visiting their nearest SASSA office.
They will need to provide reasons for the appeal and supporting documentation, if required.